The list below represents a collection of questions we encounter on an almost daily basis here at the library. We are constantly updating and revising the questions (and answers), so be sure to check the page often.
- Bring your driver's license or picture ID with a current address to the circulation desk and we will be happy to provide you with a card. If your ID has an old address, you may bring other documentation of your current address (such as a utility bill).
- We can use your existing card if we import the number into our system. However, we will need to see a driver's license or picture ID with your current address to register your card.
- No, you must have your library card with you when you check out.
- No, no and no.
- Most books and audio books may be checked out for 21 days.
- Videos, DVDs and music CDs may be checked out for 10 days.
- Loan periods for interlibrary loan materials are set by the lending library.
- You may either log on to your account and renew materials online or call us during business hours.
- Items may only be renewed one time
- Items placed on hold by another patron may not be renewed
- You may either log on to your account and place an item on hold online or call us during business hours
- Holds for popular items are filled on a first-come/first-serve basis
- You must fill out an interlibrary loan request either online or at the library.
- New items (materials published within the previous 6 months) are not available for request
- Not all libraries are willing to lend audio or visual materials
- .25 / day for books, audio books, music CDs.
- .50 / day for interlibrary loan materials
- $1.50 / day for videos and DVDs
- The Hershey Public Library exists independently of the DCLS. While we collaborate with Dauphin County libraries on a regular basis, we are two separate systems.
- No, we do not have a public fax machine. We will be happy to provide you with a list of local business that offer fax services.
- Yes, HPL provides free wireless Internet access for patrons and guests. Please read our Wireless FAQ page for details.
- You can bring in materials on 3.5" floppy discs, CD-RW discs, DVDs and USB "flash" drives.
- It's possible you have a stop on your account, either because your registration has expired or you have accumulated fines. Please call the library for assistance.
- The Hershey Room in the HPL houses the Pennsylvania Collection, which contains a variety of materials on local history.
- We are happy to lend you a pencil or a piece of scrap paper, but we cannot regularly supply paper, tape, and other supplies due to budgetary constraints.
- Yes, the Children’s Services Department has a year long schedule of read-aloud programs for children from birth – kindergarten. Preregistration is required for these free programs. The schedule is available on the website or in paper form.
- Homeschooled children are welcome at all of the Library’s children’s programs (and appropriate adult programs) We encourage homeschool parents to contact the Children’s Librarian (this should be an email link) to schedule sessions tailored to their children’s needs and interests.
- This decision is made by the parent/guardian. A child may obtain a card whenever the parent/guardian feel the child is able to handle the responsibility, although, the parent/guardian is ultimately responsible for any fines or lost book charges.
- There is no limit to the number of books someone may check out. There might be a limit to the number of books in a certain subject area that may be checked out if there is a school project. In general, however, if you can carry them, you may check them out.
- The contact person is Chris Gawron, Circulation Services Coordinator, tel: 533-6555 x3710
- 10 cents per page for black and white copies, 50 cents per page for color copies. All printing must be pre-paid at the circulation desk.
- The first overdue notice is mailed to the patron 14 days after the due date.
- You must place yourself on the automated waiting list to guarantee access to a computer when all are in use. If you have questions on this procedure, please see a staff member.
- Teens may join the Teen Advisory Board and engage in activities that interest them. Contact Rita Hunt-Smith, Children's Librarian, at 533-6555, x3708.
- No. The falling tree produces sound waves which are not converted into sound until received by organs specifically for this purpose, i.e. ears.























